Remembering Whitney Houston

"I was shocked at how humble, how humble she was and how old school professional she was," she added.

In Memoriam

Carter-Narcisse said she was impressed by Houston's stamina and focus on the set. The movie is a remake of the 1976 movie about a trio of singers.

But Carter-Narcisse said she was mostly charmed by Houston's love for her family.

Highlights from the 2012 Grammy Awards

"She was just a mom like me, talking about our kids and the importance of how we raise them and spend quality time with them," she said.

Houston's final movie is due out in theaters in August.

It would have been the beginning of a feature film comeback for the star since her famed breakout role in The Bodyguard 20 years ago. Lisa Cole, a former publicist for the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, negotiated the deal to shoot scenes of the movie at the famous hotel in the penthouse suite and balcony. They also shot in what was then called Tropigala, now known as LIV night club, where Houston sang "I Have Nothing."

"For her it was her first film, so she was a little nervous, quiet but gracious and kind," said Cole."It was for my career certainly a pinnacle moment ... It was just a great time and energy."

Cole was in the grand ballroom when Houston recorded the hit that would define her career, "I will always love you." She called it a magical moment.